During the planning phase for new school facilities, architects typically address factors that affect technology infrastructure design and installation, including building layout, ceiling type, wall construction, space allocation for wiring, ventilation, electrical power supply and location, room layouts, and physical security, among others. Whenever possible, planning for technology expansion throughout a facility should consider the following:
Classroom alteration to allow more student workstations
Ability to increase circuit capacity of wiring closets
Provisions for extra power circuits and accommodation to new or emerging technologies
To prevent overload, electrical equipment must be sized properly for the possibility of high neutral currents. Air conditioning is beneficial not only for comfort but also to protect technology equipment, particularly in year-round facilities. Lighting should be energy efficient, with various types of diffusers for flexible computer-compatible design. Integrated communications systems provide not only for voice, video, and data distribution but also for announcements, clocks, and alarm systems that tie in to the telephone system.
To prevent overload, electrical equipment must be sized properly for the possibility of high neutral currents. Air conditioning is beneficial not only for comfort but also to protect technology equipment, particularly in year-round facilities. Lighting should be energy efficient, with various types of diffusers for flexible computer-compatible design. Integrated communications systems provide not only for voice, video, and data distribution but also for announcements, clocks, and alarm systems that tie in to the telephone system.